Conventional trenchless design and construction solutions are typically sought during the initial planning of any trenchless pipeline project. However, some projects can provide unique challenges during the planning phase or can turn into a rescue situation because of unplanned failure of conventional trenchless installation. Unique problems require unconventional solutions and outside the box thinking. Although, Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) rigs and Direct Pipe® Thruster are typically used for day to day HDD and Direct Pipe installation, our recent experience has shown that these equipment, without or with some modifications, can solve some unique problems with some outside the box thinking. This paper describes the authors' experience with some of such unique applications employed over last couple years. The applications include combined use of equipment to overcome the HDD design requirement challenges, as well as pipeline extraction and replacement by using equipment in unusual configurations. By applying unconventional solutions, risks were significantly reduced and considerable financial benefits was achieved. Furthermore, the paper explores potential uses of the pipe thruster that can be considered for solution of future problems.
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